If studying in Japan at a world-class university has ever been on your dream list, this is the moment you’ve been waiting for. Hokkaido University has officially opened applications for its HUSTEP Student Exchange Program, along with Special Auditor (SA) and Special Research Student (SRS) routes for the 2026–2027 academic year—and this call is already turning heads across global campuses.
What makes this announcement even more exciting is the real financial support behind it. Selected students don’t just get a seat in Japan’s academic powerhouse—they also stand a chance to secure a monthly JASSO scholarship of ¥80,000, turning an international study dream into an affordable reality. English-taught courses, Japanese language training, and hands-on research under expert faculty make this one of the most career-boosting exchange opportunities of 2026.
What Winning This Opportunity Really Offers You?
Getting selected for HUSTEP, Special Auditor, or Special Research Student status at Hokkaido University means stepping into one of Asia’s most respected research ecosystems—without the heavy financial pressure that usually comes with studying abroad. Students can access English-taught academic courses, structured Japanese language learning, and—most importantly—scholarship opportunities that provide a monthly living allowance of ¥80,000 through JASSO.
Add to that world-class labs, one-to-one faculty supervision, and the prestige of Japan’s top national university on your academic profile, and this becomes more than an exchange—it becomes a career-defining international experience.
Who Can Apply?
If you’re planning to take your education global in 2026, this program could already have your name on it. Here’s what Hokkaido University is looking for:
- You are enrolled full-time in an undergraduate degree program at your home university.
- You will remain registered and pay tuition at your home institution during your stay in Japan.
- You have completed at least two years of undergraduate study before arrival.
- You hold a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent).
- You are proficient in English, with at least TOEFL iBT 79, IELTS 6.5, or CEFR C1 if you are a non-native speaker.
- You are able to arrive in late September or early April for the program intake.
How to Apply?
Applying to Hokkaido University’s exchange and research tracks doesn’t need to feel complicated. Think of it as a clear, step-by-step journey:
Start by choosing your pathway—HUSTEP for coursework and exchange, Special Auditor if you want to earn credits in your field, or Special Research Student if your focus is mainly research. Next, complete the online application through the TAO system, upload your academic documents, language certificates, study plan, and required consent forms. Once everything is ready, submit your file through your university’s International Relations Office so it can be officially forwarded to Hokkaido University.
From there, it’s all about waiting for the life-changing email that confirms your place in Japan’s academic future.
When Is the Last Date to Apply?
For students aiming to join HUSTEP 2026, the final deadline to submit applications through your International Relations Office is 2 February 2026. Those applying for the Special Auditor (SA) and Special Research Student (SRS) tracks have a little more time, with the last date set for 20 February 2026. If studying in Japan with possible monthly scholarship support is on your radar, this is not a deadline you want to watch pass by.